A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Attractions

Should you visit Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Norfolk or Napa Valley? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Norfolk and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Napa Valley than Norfolk. While Norfolk is larger than Napa Valley, Napa Valley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Napa Valley is better known for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Norfolk is more popular for its museums. Napa Valley is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. Also, Napa Valley is famous for Louis M. Martini Winery. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Napa Valley and Norfolk. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Norfolk is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Norfolk. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Norfolk or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Napa Valley is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Norfolk or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Napa Valley know how to have a good time. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Norfolk or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great destination for shopping. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Norfolk or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Norfolk or Napa Valley.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Norfolk. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Napa Valley offers lots of family activities. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Norfolk or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a must-visit destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Napa Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.


Is Norfolk or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Norfolk is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Norfolk or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Napa Valley

Norfolk is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

Napa Valley is not a walkable city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Norfolk or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Napa Valley due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

Families should spend more time in Norfolk than Napa Valley. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Norfolk, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Napa Valley than Norfolk. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Napa Valley that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Napa Valley than Norfolk if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Napa Valley.


  • How many days in Norfolk or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the blue collar city of Norfolk. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Napa Valley, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the blue collar destination of Norfolk. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Napa Valley, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Napa Valley has to offer.

Five days in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

The authentic city of Norfolk offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Norfolk. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Napa Valley. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Norfolk?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $166, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $288. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Norfolk and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk or Napa Valley? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Norfolk


Hotels in Napa Valley


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Norfolk Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110
  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Norfolk change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Norfolk $49
    Napa Valley $62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Norfolk.

  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $101
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $126
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $162
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Norfolk $14
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $95
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $104
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $67
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $95
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour : $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $125
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $125
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley: $130
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Norfolk $10
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Norfolk and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley is more expensive. And not only is Norfolk much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Norfolk would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Norfolk and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Napa Valley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Napa Valley than you might in Norfolk.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Norfolk Expensive? and Is Napa Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Norfolk and Napa Valley, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Norfolk or Napa Valley?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Norfolk or Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Norfolk during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Norfolk in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Norfolk is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 79°F (26°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Norfolk. In the summer, Norfolk often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Norfolk gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. Norfolk gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Norfolk 79°F (26°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Norfolk and Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Norfolk for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Norfolk is around the same temperature as Napa Valley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Norfolk averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. Norfolk usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during autumn. Norfolk gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Norfolk gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Norfolk 62°F (16°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Norfolk as well as Napa Valley. The winter months attract visitors to Norfolk because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

The weather in Norfolk can be very cold. In the winter, Norfolk is much colder than Napa Valley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Norfolk in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Norfolk often gets more sunshine than Napa Valley. Norfolk gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun.

Norfolk usually gets less rain in January than Napa Valley. Norfolk gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Norfolk 39°F (4°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Norfolk or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Norfolk are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty.

In April, Norfolk is generally around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Norfolk average around 58°F (14°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. Norfolk usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during spring. Norfolk gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Norfolk usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Norfolk gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Norfolk 58°F (14°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Norfolk

Norfolk Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)